MRCPCH - a guide for overseas paediatrics doctors
- September 09, 2021
Overseas paediatricians taking the postgraduate route to GMC Registration must attain full MRCPCH.
Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (MRCPCH) can be sat by international doctors from any country in the world provided certain eligibility criteria are met. These are summarised below along with a broad look at the following topics:
- What is MRCPCH?
- Am I eligible?
- Sponsors for the Clinical Exam
- MRCPCH Theory - structure and content
- MRCPCH Clinical – structure and content
- Where and when can I take the exams? How much will it cost me?
- How do I apply?
- How to prepare and what resources are available
- Passed? What next?
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health is the professional body responsible for the specialty of Paediatrics throughout the UK. Amongst many other duties, its role is to set and monitor the educational curriculum for those training to enter the profession.
What is MRCPCH?
Paediatricians become full members of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and achieve the designation MRCPCH once they have passed four separate postgraduate medical exams.
The MRCPCH examinations consist of 3 theory exams and 1 clinical exam:
- Foundation of Practice (FOP) - theory examination (basic child health)
- Theory and Science (TAS) - theory examination (basic scientific, physiological and pharmacological principles upon which clinical practice is based)
- Applied Knowledge in Practice (AKP) - theory examination (knowledge synthesis/evaluation, clinical decision-making and management)
- MRCPCH Clinical examination - multi station OSCE
* Theory exams can be taken in any order of preference.
For overseas doctors relocating to the UK, the MRCPCH is one of two options to support full GMC registration (postgraduate qualification or PLAB route). For doctors who wish to take on more senior roles reflective of their current practice, IMG Connect advise that the MRCPCH would be the best route to securing their dream job in the NHS.
Am I eligible for the MRCPCH exams?
Theory Exams:
To be eligible you must hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes.
MRCPCH Clinical:
You must pass the 3 theory exams in order to be eligible for the final MRCPCH clinical examination.
All MRCPCH clinical candidates must be proposed by 2 sponsors, who will certify that you have a good period of training in paediatrics and can be considered as ready to take the exam. You can take the exams at any stage in your career, however current advice is that in order to optimise your chances of success in the MRCPCH Clinical examination you should have:
- completed a period of training lasting two and a half years
- spent no less than 12 months in posts involving the care of emergency paediatric patients
- spent six months of your first year after graduation as a house paediatrician; if not, an additional six months in a post involving the care of emergency paediatric patients.
Sponsors for the clinical exam:
As we mentioned above, candidates for the clinical examinations must have two sponsors who will declare you have covered the required amount of training in paediatrics which matches the exam syllabus and consider you ready to take the exam. You will be asked to provide each sponsors personal and work details, and they will be notified if you receive a poor mark.
The examination is conducted in English and candidates are advised that IELTS Level 7 is the expected standard for completion of the MRCPCH examinations. Remember, you will need to have a pass of 7.5 average in all areas of IELTS to complete your GMC registration.
What is the structure and content for MRCPCH examinations?
As above, the MRCPCH examinations consists of 4 parts:
- 3 theory exams
- 1 clinical exam
Theory exams:
Candidates will sit 3 theory examinations; each test is administered on a computer and the tests can be taken in any order.
There are usually 3 sittings for each exam per year.
Each exam is 2 hours and 30 minutes, unless you have been allocated additional time.
Foundation of Practice (FOP) theory exam:
This exam assesses a candidate’s knowledge, understanding and clinical decision-making. It aims to ensure that you have reached the same standard as someone entering core training (ST1 equivalent)
Questions are typically a combination of:
- Single Best Answer Questions (SBAs) – 70 questions
- Extended Matching Questions (EMQs) – 10 questions
Extended Matching Questions (EMQs) require you to choose the best option from a list of ten possible options, all are feasible, but only one is completely correct.
Theory and Science (TAS) theory exam:
This tests basic scientific, physiological and pharmacological principles of clinical and evidence-based practice.
It uses the same format for questioning as the FOP exam.
Applied Knowledge in Practice (AKP):
This tests your knowledge, understanding and clinical decision-making based on a standard of someone entering their core specialist training (ST1 equivalent).
The exam uses the format N of Many - giving two or three answers that are required from a longer list.
For example, there can be more than one answer from a scenario since there may be two equally important investigations that should be complete, or three abnormalities from a scan or x-ray.
When sitting the AKP using the format N of Many, remember that each question carries its own weighting – pay attention to how many marks each question is worth in the test and answer accordingly.
Clinical examination:
The MRCPCH clinical examination forms the final part of the exams. Remember, you must have passed all 3 theory tests in order to be eligible to sit this test.
This test will be taken in a hospital setting and you will follow a circuit of 12 scenarios. You should be familiar with this type of test (OSCE) from your medical training. Examiners will assess performance during each scenario, which will include actors (children, young people and adults).
The aim of the clinical examination is to assess whether candidates have reached the standard in clinical skills expected of a newly appointed ST4 in the UK.
Candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency in:
- communication
- history taking and management planning
- establishing rapport with both parents and children
- physical examination
- child development
- clinical judgement
- organisation of thoughts and actions
- recognition of acute illness
- knowledge of paediatrics and child health
- professional behaviour
- ethical practice
The Clinical Exam is guided by important educational principles while holding to the considerable standards of a clinical examination, including the examination of real children.
The Clinical Exam includes 10 objective assessments of each candidate. In most circumstances’ assessment is conducted by a different examiner at each clinical station, so performance at one station does not influence the next station. The test will include six ‘short case’ assessments, emphasising clinical examination. Stations are as follows:
Station 1: Child development – clinical assessment
Station 2 & 5: Communication skills
Station 3: History taking and management planning
Station 4: Clinical video scenarios
Station 6 – 10: Clinical examinations
The order in which candidates will take the circuit will vary. There are 4-minute breaks between stations, the entire circuit takes 152 minutes in total.
Where and when can I sit the exams? And how much do they cost?
Each country fee is different, please see below current exam fees (as of April 2019).
Theory exams:
|
Country |
Theory Exams |
Exam fee 2019 |
|
India, Malaysia, KSA, UAE, Oman, Myanmar, Sudan, Singapore, Jordan, Kuwait, Malta, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Trinidad |
FOP - single paper |
£390 |
|
TAS - single paper |
£390 |
|
|
FOP and TAS - both papers |
£653 |
|
|
AKP |
£750 |
|
|
Egypt and Nepal |
FOP - single paper |
£363 |
|
TAS - single paper |
£363 |
|
|
FOP and TAS - both papers |
£589 |
|
|
AKP |
£683 |
|
|
Hong Kong (HK) |
FOP - single paper |
TBC |
|
TAS - single paper |
TBC |
|
|
FOP and TAS - both papers |
TBC |
|
|
AKP |
TBC |
*Not all countries will offer the exam at each sitting. If you would like to request an exam in another country, you can contact the MRCPCH
Clinical examinations:
|
Country |
Fee |
|
UK |
£765 |
|
Egypt |
£1,145 |
|
India |
£1,428 |
|
KSA |
£1,479 |
|
Malaysia |
£1,255 |
|
Myanmar |
£1,082 |
|
Oman |
£1,479 |
|
Singapore (Conjoint MMED - MRCPCH Clinical fee) |
£1,428 |
|
Sudan |
£1,220 |
|
UAE |
£1,479 |
|
Hong Kong |
TBC |
How do I apply for the exams?
To apply for the MRCPCH, you first need to register online for exams. You need an RCPCH online account (with an RCPCH number). Then you can complete a short registration form – you will require evidence of your primary medical qualification.
How do I register for exams?
You can register for exams at any time throughout the year. After your registration is accepted, you can apply for an exam but only during relevant open application periods. It takes at least 10 working days to process registration.During exam application periods the Royal College are not able to process registrations.
Register three to four weeks before exam application period opens to help ensure you do not miss your preferred exam diet. The best dates to register for exams are usually January, May and September.
How do I book an exam?
- Log in to your RCPCH account
- Go to My Account
- From your dashboard, go to the Exams panel, and from your exam dashboard, follow links to apply
What do I need to bring to the exam?
You will need to bring one of the following forms of ID:
- passport with photograph and signature - this must be current or no more than six months expired
- valid driving license with photograph and signature
- national identity card with photograph and signature.
Please note, only original documents will be accepted as proof of identification.
How can I prepare for the exams?
With lots of materials online we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for resources and materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams. See below:
Theory Examination:
Theory Examination Syllabi: This document outlines the syllabus for MRCPCH theory examinations - MRCPCH Theory Examination Syllabi.
Theory exams structure and syllabus: Further information on FOP, TAS and AKP can be found in the theory exams structure and syllabus. This is to be read in combination with the Royal College’s Curriculum for Paediatrics. Within the Curriculum for Paediatrics you can read about the 11 domains and are able to download assessment strategy and generic syllabi for each training level.
Sample Papers: We recommend becoming familiar with the exam format and software, and you can practice with some sample papers here.
Clinical Examination:
Clinical Examination candidate guide: This is a comprehensive guide from the Royal College specifically covering the Clinical Examination. This includes station breakdowns, clinical video scenarios, general instructions and downloads among many other resources.
Anchor Statements: The Anchor Statements outline the expected standard for each station against which candidates are marked. We recommend you familiarise yourself with the criteria points for expected standards before sitting the exam.
Clinical Exam Technique: This guide covers the clinical examination in considerable depth, including:
- examination technique
- specifics on clinical areas
- detail on short-cases
User guide for video station: A guide for Station 4: Clinical video scenarios can be downloaded here.
Clinical Exam: hints and tipsHints and tips specific to the clinical exam can be found on the MRCPCH clinical examination candidate guide (scroll down to find them).
As ever at IMG Connect, we believe in preparation. In order to succeed in the clinical exam, IMGs have told us that it is vital that you practise your clinical examinations as frequently as possible, preferably under the supervision of a senior colleague. This will give you confidence in approaching and examining children with examiners present.
Passed? What next?
First of all, congratulations! After you have passed all four parts of your MRCPCH examinations, you can apply for a full registration with a license to practice. Once the GMC have approved your application, you can work as a doctor in the UK.
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Get in Touch
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss paediatrics job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
Relevant Jobs
A leading NHS hospital is seeking a Consultant Paediatrician with an interest in Respiratory Medicine. The Paediatric Respiratory department includes a team of experienced consultants and middle grade doctors. This is an excellent opportunity for UK-based and international applicants, particularly those with MRCPCH or equivalent specialist qualifications.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- CCT or equivalent qualification and specialist registration in Paediatrics with an interest in Respiratory Medicine.
- Proven experience in Paediatric Respiratory care and clinical leadership.
- Salary range: £105,504 - £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Lead the Paediatric Respiratory service, providing specialist care for complex cases.
- Support and develop junior doctors and medical staff.
- Contribute to clinical governance and service development.
LIFE IN SOUTH WEST
South West England offers a dynamic mix of coastal, rural, and urban living, with excellent transport links and a rich cultural and historical heritage. From stunning landscapes like Dartmoor and the Jurassic Coast to vibrant cities such as Bristol and Exeter, the region provides a high quality of life for families and professionals alike.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
- Document gathering and checking
- COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel Arrangements
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
A leading NHS hospital in the UK is seeking a Consultant in Community Paediatrics to join its growing team. The department includes experienced consultants, associate specialists, and middle-grade doctors, providing high-quality paediatric care. This role is open to both UK-based and international candidates, with preference for those holding CESR or entry on the GMC Specialist Register.
Portfolio support (formerly CESR) is available and can be discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- Full GMC Registration and CESR or entry on the GMC Specialist Register are required.
- Training in Safeguarding, Neurodisability, or Social Paediatrics is highly desirable.
- The salary will range from £105,504 and £139,882 per annum (pro rata), based on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Deliver expert care in Community Paediatrics, supporting children with developmental and safeguarding needs.
- Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team, including specialist nurses, therapists, and social care teams.
- Participate in safeguarding assessments, neurodevelopmental clinics, and complex case reviews.
- Engage in medical education, clinical governance, and service development initiatives.
LIFE IN THE REGION
The hospital is located in a beautiful UK region, known for its high quality of life, excellent transport links, and access to scenic coastal and countryside areas. Families benefit from great schools, a range of outdoor activities, and a thriving cultural scene.
With a strong maritime history and modern healthcare infrastructure, the region provides an exceptional working environment for medical professionals.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions.
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you all the way to starting your new role, including:
- Document gathering and checking, COS and Visa Application support if applicable.
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
- Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care.
A general hospital on a scenic island is looking for a Consultant in Paediatric Medicine with an interest in general paediatrics and neonatology. The paediatric department comprises a team of 6 consultants supported by 7 middle-grade doctors. This paediatrics job is open to both international (IMG) applications and UK-based doctors, though those with equivalent specialist qualifications or Royal College certifications are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
NHS experience, MRCOG / European specialist paediatrics qualifications and extensive experience in paediatrics and neonatology are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in acute paediatrics or neonatal transport should apply. The salary will be between £56 to 103k dependent on seniority and experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Deliver acute and ambulatory medical care to children, including neonatal care.
-
Participate in a non-resident on-call rota covering paediatrics and neonates.
-
Conduct ward rounds and outpatient clinics, with significant focus on direct clinical care.
-
Engage in departmental teaching, governance, and training activities.
LIFE ON THE ISLAND
This island offers an ideal mix of urban and rural lifestyles, with vibrant towns and serene coastal villages. The region features great transport connections, including quick access to the mainland, and a wide variety of excellent schools, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly activities. Historically significant, the island is celebrated for its wartime history and beautifully preserved castles and coastlines.
An NHS hospital in the South East region is looking for a Specialty Doctor in General Paediatrics with an interest in Neonatology or another special interest. The Paediatrics department comprises a team of 15 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Paediatrics job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or MRCPCH are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
At least three years of experience in General Paediatrics, including Neonatal medicine at a middle-grade level, are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in developing their subspecialty expertise should apply. The salary will be between £52,530 and £82,400 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Support the inpatient service, SSPAU, and level 1 SCBU.
- Participate in a 1:8 Tier 3 Rota providing general paediatric services.
- Provide teaching and participate in education activities in General Paediatrics.
- Contribute to clinical governance, incident reporting, and audit projects.
LIFE IN SOUTH EAST ENGLAND
The hospital is located in a well-connected area, with towns such as Eastbourne and Bexhill-on-Sea offering both urban and rural living options. There are excellent schools, transport links, and leisure facilities for both adults and families. The region has a rich history, including its role in the famous 1066 Battle of Hastings, which shaped British history.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
- Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel Arrangements Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
We are looking to recruit a Consultant Paediatrician in the Channel Islands, a UK territory sitting off the coast of France and just a 1 hour flight from London. This job presents a great opportunity to advance your medical career in the UK.
The health service, separate from the NHS, is an integrated, taxation-funded system, free at the point of delivery, managed by the Health and Community Services Department on the island. Key benefits of working there are higher salaries than the NHS, lower taxes and sunnier weather.
Consultant Pay range - £110,257 to £164,372
Single rate of tax - 20%.
The Service
The service is committed to delivering high-quality healthcare services to its community. Funded by local authorities, the Trust oversees a comprehensive range of health services including hospital care, public health, and environmental health. With a modern hospital featuring a significant number of acute beds and specialized facilities, the Trust ensures exceptional care for both residents and seasonal visitors. The organization emphasizes excellence in patient care and continuous improvement, making it a prominent healthcare provider in its region.
Department & Team
The Paediatrics Department at this service provides essential care to children and includes a dedicated team of Paediatric Consultants, Staff Grades, and trainee doctors. The department offers a full spectrum of services such as Neonatal Care, Acute Paediatric Medical Care, and Ambulatory Care. With strong links to tertiary centers, the department ensures access to advanced medical treatments and maintains a robust governance system to support high standards of patient care and continuous professional development.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within Paediatrics, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The Trust is committed to your professional growth, providing generous study leave, financial support for relevant courses, and opportunities for involvement in clinical audits and teaching. This support will help you achieve your career goals and meet the requirements for revalidation and ongoing professional development.
Location
The region features diverse natural beauty, including stunning coastlines and scenic landscapes. With a moderate cost of living, excellent educational facilities, and a safe, welcoming community, it offers a balanced lifestyle. The area’s rich cultural heritage and local traditions add to its charm.
Financial benefits
Living in this location offers significant financial benefits. The flat income tax rate of 20% is notably advantageous compared to the UK, and a generous public sector pension scheme is provided, not constrained by UK lifetime or annual contribution limits. The consultant contract closely mirrors the UK model but offers higher incremental levels starting at £110,257 and with a top basic salary of £164,372.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Specialist Training in Paediatrics
- Consultant or Specialist Experience in Paediatrics
- RCPCH qualification
EEA candidates:
- Consultant or Specialist Experience in Paediatrics
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- RCPCH qualification
- Specialist Training in Paediatrics
- Consultant or Specialist Experience in Paediatrics